AfriGeneas Free Persons of Color Forum

Edward COOK, Sullivan Cty TN 1832

PAR #: 11483205
Location: Sullivan County, TN • Year: 1832

Abstract: Thomas Rockhold requests permission to emancipate a slave family and legislative approval for them to remain in the state. In 1828, Rockhold agreed to free one of his slaves, Emley, after her husband, free man of color Edward Cook, had paid off a $250 note as her purchase price. Meanwhile, the couple had two children, Thomas and William. Rockhold seeks permission to present an emancipation petition to the county court to "cause the said Emley and said two Children Thomas & William to be emancipated." He also asks that he not be "Bound for them to leave the state." They are, he states, "honest and industrious and respectable." Rockhold also seeks to free several other slaves.